OTTs can pay telcos directly: COAI tells DoT

Internet-based communication platforms can pay directly to telecom operators for using their networks and providing similar services, the telecom operators’ body Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has told the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). In its comments to the DoT on the draft telecom Bill, COAI said that such platforms should be clearly defined in the Bill.

The Indian Telecommunication Bill, 2022, released in September proposes regulating communication services including voice, video, and data offered by over-the-top (OTT) platforms such as Whatsapp as telecom services, requiring them to obtain a licence from the government just like other telecom operators.